AN IMPOSING statue of Winston Churchill has been chosen as the symbol of Redbridge at the Olympic Games.

The famous monument, in Woodford Green - which has just celebrated its 50th anniversary - was voted for by residents to feature on a set of special commemorative pin badges to be produced specially for the event in 2012.

The result has been welcomed by critics of the scheme who complained that other symbols nominated by the council for selection - including Ilford Town Hall and Redbridge Cycling Centre - ignored more 'worthy' historic buildings in the west of the borough such as the Grade I listed St Mary's Church, in Wanstead.

The result shows that Churchill, who was MP for Woodford from 1945 to 1964, remains an immensely popular figure in the area.

A council spokesman said: "Redbridge Council teamed up with the London 2012 organising committee to offer residents the opportunity to vote for their favourite local landmark to be featured in a set London 2012 ‘Landmark London’ pin badges.

"A landmark from each London borough will be included in the set of 33 pin badges which are expected to go on sale next year.

"The borough was spoiled for choice for potential nominees but in the end residents were able to choose between four of the borough’s iconic landmarks: Valentines Mansion, The Winston Churchill Statue, Redbridge Cycling Centre and Redbridge Town Hall.

"The votes are now in and residents have chosen the statue to represent Redbridge."